Charlie Hughes
HUL
CB
Controlled Centre Back
Oct 16, 2003 (22)
Right
6'1"
176 lb
Hull CityFacing up to seven weeks out
Hughes (groin) is expected to remain sidelined for a maximum of seven weeks following specialist advice on his injury, according to coach Sergej Jakirovic.
Analysis: Hughes' visit to a specialist has provided a clearer timetable after his groin problem lingered following offseason surgery. The defender is expected to return next month if his rehabilitation progresses as planned, meaning Saturday's clash against Aston Villa will come far too soon. His absence leaves Hull without one of their defensive options for several more matches.
Seeing specialist
Hughes (groin) traveled to Dublin to see a specialist to treat the injury that will keep him out of Saturday's match against Manchester United, manager Sergej Jakirovic told Hull Live. "[Charlie] Hughes went to Dublin to see the specialist, and we will see what the situation is with him after he comes back."
Analysis: Hughes underwent surgery in the offseason, and while there aren't reports of a setback, this trip to see a specialist on the verge of the new season suggests a return to the pitch isn't imminent. With Hughes set to be assessed upon his return to Hull City facilities, it wouldn't be surprising if he's sidelined for a few more weeks at a minimum, considering he needs to recover his match fitness levels once he's back in training.
Out for opening of season
Hughes is expected to miss the start of the season due to aggravating a groin problem following double hernia surgery, according to manager Sergej Jakirovic, per BBC Humberside Sport.
Analysis: Hughes looks to be out for the start of the season after receiving surgery this offseason, with the defender operating on a double hernia and aggravating the injury recently. This will leave the Tigers without a useful option in the defense and a likely starter, as he started in 39 of his 41 appearances in their promotion campaign. If this is the case for the start of the season, John Egan, Semi Ajayi and Paddy McNair will likely be the center-backs starting in the three-back system to begin the season.
Eyes breakthrough season
Hughes was one of Hull's most important defensive figures during the promotion campaign, establishing himself as a key presence at center-back and one of the more technically accomplished defenders in the Championship this season.
Analysis: Hughes made 41 Championship appearances this season, contributing one goal and one assist while posting 48 tackles and 44 interceptions, establishing himself as one of the standout defensive performers in the division. His composure on the ball, aerial ability and defensive intelligence made him stand out as one of the brightest young defenders outside the top flight, and his performances throughout the campaign earned him significant attention heading into the summer. His ability to play out from the back and contribute to Hull's build-up play fits perfectly into coach Sergej Jakirovic's style, and the Premier League will be an important proving ground for a player widely regarded as having the tools to compete at the highest level. Getting consistent minutes in the top flight could be the making of Hughes as one of England's more promising young defensive talents.
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